American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

The primary purpose of an urban growth boundary (UGB) is to separate urban and rural areas. A UGB is implemented by local governments to control urban expansion and manage growth in a sustainable manner. This boundary serves as a delineation that limits the area designated for urban development while protecting surrounding rural lands from urban sprawl. By establishing this boundary, planners aim to concentrate development within certain areas, preserve open space, reduce the costs associated with providing public services, and maintain the character and integrity of rural areas.

While urban growth boundaries can indeed influence infrastructure planning and might indirectly support agricultural land preservation, the core function is fundamentally about maintaining a clear distinction between urban and non-urban landscapes. This helps to manage resources effectively, protect ecosystems, and enhance quality of life by minimizing the negative impacts associated with unchecked urban sprawl.